Third Shot Drive
Also known as: driving third, drive third
A third shot drive is a hard, low-trajectory shot hit from the baseline on the third shot, used instead of a drop to put pressure on the returning team and force a defensive pop-up.
The third shot drop is the standard, but the third shot drive is a valid and often underused alternative. When the return is short or sits up, driving it hard at the opposing team's feet forces them to block defensively rather than attack. A successful third shot drive either wins the point outright or produces a pop-up that the serving team can attack on the fifth shot. It is most effective when mixed with drops to keep the returning team guessing, and when aimed at the player with a weaker block volley.
Example
A short return sits up at mid-court; rather than dropping, the server drives hard and low at the returning player's feet, forcing a block that pops up for a fifth-shot put-away.
Why it matters
The third-shot drive adds variety that makes the third-shot drop harder to read. SwingVantage tracks your third-shot selection outcomes so you know which option your game supports.
Frequently asked questions
Should I ever drive on the third shot?
Yes — especially when the return is short, sits high, or when you want to keep the opponents guessing. Mix drives and drops so the opponents cannot pre-set their response.
Related terms
- Third-Shot DropThe third-shot drop is a soft shot hit from the baseline that lands in the opponent’s kitchen, giving the serving team time to advance to the net.
- DriveA drive is a hard, flat or low-trajectory shot hit from mid-court or the baseline, intended to push opponents back or force a weak return.
- Fifth Shot PatternThe fifth shot pattern refers to the serving team's planned response on the fifth shot of the rally — typically a drop or drive based on what the fourth-shot return produces.
- ServeThe pickleball serve is an underhand stroke, made below the waist, hit diagonally into the opposite service box. It starts the point but — under the two-bounce rule — can’t be followed to the net.
Related guides & benchmarks
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